1999 Ford Falcon vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1999 Ford Falcon is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,982 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Falcon (220 HP) has 171 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Falcon weights approximately 700 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 Ford Falcon is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Ford Falcon (366 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Ford Falcon 1978 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Falcon Golf
Year Released 1999 1978
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3982 cc 1471 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 220 HP 49 HP
Torque 366 Nm 81 Nm
Torque RPM 3150 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92.3 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 99.3 mm 80 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1530 kg 830 kg
Vehicle Length 4910 mm 3730 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 45 L